The degree of dissolution of carbon dioxide in ocean water depends on the certain properties of water like temperature, depth, salinity etc. and the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Considering the impacts that carbon dioxide has on the marine organisms, it is inevitable to explore the chemical reactions of carbon dioxide in ocean water in detail.
Carbon dioxide and ocean water relationship
Compare to others, carbon dioxide is a gas that is constantly absorbed in the ocean water. But, the degree of absorption determined by certain conditions. Let’s see the determining factors for dissolution of carbon dioxide.
Concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
There is a direct correlation between the degree of concentration of carbon dioxide in present atmosphere and the rate of absorption by ocean water. Simply, more concentration leads to greater absorption.
According to various research reports, the concentration of carbon dioxide is rising with increased fossil fuels emissions. At the same time, the apprehensions are raised about possible threats.
Negative relations of carbon dioxide with sea surface temperature
Technically, it is proved that the sea surface temperature has negative bearing on the degree of absorption. So, carbon dioxide dissolves more in cold water than water that has higher temperature.
Then, what would happen when there is rise in both in surface temperature as well as concentration of carbon dioxide emissions? Probably, the absorbing capacity of oceanic water may decline drastically.
Till today, we have learnt that ocean is the biggest carbon sink. Shockingly, now, is it possible to prove this equation in near future considering above fact?
Impact of salinity of ocean water on absorption of carbon dioxide
Fresh water is better to get carbon dioxide dissolved than other. And, why this is being done in the industrial purpose.
Actually, saline water can’t hold much of carbon dioxide compare to fresh. It means that salinity has inverse relationship with dissolution of carbon dioxide.
On the other hand, evaporation is direct correlation with degree of salinity. Simply, more temperature, higher evaporation and greater salinity. In other words, when there is high temperature and salinity, there would be lower absorption of carbon dioxide.
Best inference regarding carbon dioxide and ocean water relationship
Ecologically, sufficient amount of carbon dioxide is necessary for the sustainance of marine life. Shell bearing marine organisms by the means of calcification build and maintain shells made up of calcium carbonate.
If the concentration of carbon dioxide crosses threshold limit, it would make difficult for them to form protective shield since carbonic acids reacts with calcium carbonate.
Secondly, it would be more lethal when there is out emission from oceanic water due to higher temperature. Then, the fate would be much more catastrophic for land as well as water.
Hence, right equilibrium is the solution for potential irreversible threats. So, think over it…
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